Paul Cothren: A straight-shooting teacher
When Paul Cothren won his first election for County Commissioner in 2001, he had been a faithful firearm user and carrier for most of his life. But the laws were changing, and he was now in the role of a public servant, so he enrolled himself in a license to carry (LTC) class.
“The instructor was a great guy and a good teacher, but the method was a bit antiquated,” Paul stated. “I thought I could improve on the method and make it more interesting.”
A year later he started teaching a local LTC class, as well as basic handgun safety and shooting classes with his wife, Loretta Barrett Cothren. Working together they teach classes for all ages, including a 4H class and Ladies Handgun 101.
“I enjoy teaching. I like meeting new people, and safe shooting is so very important,” he explained. “So, we dove in, and here we are.”
Another teaching opportunity arose in 2007, when he developed all the training materials for the Southern Baptist Texas Convention Disaster Relief. He has travelled all over the United States holding training sessions in Disaster Relief Training. He not only trains others, but he helps with disaster relief efforts in Cass County, as well as elsewhere.
As far as the LTC classes, Paul explains that he is not a tactical trainer; but he does teach the legalities of gun ownership that one must know to get their LTC.
“If people want to have the option for self-defense, they should take the course to understand the legalities,” Paul said. “When the COVID-19 pandemic started, we had over 100 in the class.”
Each class consists of classroom time and range time. In the class, participants will learn where and when it is legal to carry their weapon, how to safely carry it on their person, and how to make the decision to draw and use it. Tips are also offered about how to communicate with law enforcement officers after having to use your weapon to defend yourself.
Each participant brings their own pistol to the range and shoots a series of bullets at a target from different distances. It’s advised to clean and lube your pistol before coming to the range. The pistol and magazine should be unloaded before arriving. You can bring any pistol, including a .22; bring 50 rounds of ammo, and eye and ear protection, with you. (Reload ammunition is not allowed on the range).
The next class will be held this Friday, September 12, at 9 a.m. at 712 West Main, behind Westside Baptist Church. Do not bring your weapon into the classroom. It must remain in your vehicle until you arrive at the shooting range after class. For space availability or more information, call 903-244-1748, or email: dontblink65@gmail.com.